Carpal tunnel may be a symptom of this heart condition
Did you know that carpal tunnel syndrome could be an early warning sign of a heart condition years before it presents itself?
The heart condition is called cardiac amyloidosis and it occurs when faulty proteins build up in your heart which can make it harder for the vital organ to pump blood. This extra effort to pump blood can weaken and damage your heart.
“Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include wrist pain, tingling, numbness and weakness. For this reason, one of the causes of this numbness may be related to cardiac amyloidosis,” explains Dr. Moe Zafarani, a cardiovascular physician at Aurora Health Care.
He reiterates that carpal tunnel syndrome doesn’t involve your heart, liver or kidneys, but the numbness or tingling in your arms or legs could be a sign of cardiac amyloidosis.
Other possible symptoms of cardiac amyloidosis include:
- Shortness of breath when you are active or lying down
- Swelling in your feet, ankles or legs from fluid accumulation
- Fatigue, unusually tired or exhausted for several days or longer
- Heart palpitations
- Enlarged neck veins
- Swollen liver or kidney problems
Cardiac amyloidosis is mainly inherited and carried in your DNA, so generally it can’t be prevented. However, there are a few exceptions including staying up to date with your health care provider who will be able to tell you if your symptoms need medical attention.
Dr. Zafarani adds, “There’s a wide range of treatments and medications that can help people with cardiac amyloidosis. Early detection can improve your outlook and many people with this condition can manage their symptoms and survive for years after they develop the condition.”
It’s always important to follow your health care provider’s guidance when it comes to medications and treatments. Many cardiac amyloidosis medications work in specific ways, so it’s even more essential that you take them as instructed.
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